Apple Brie is a warm and gooey treat that combines soft brie cheese with sweet apples. It’s simple to make and perfect for sharing with friends!
Whenever I whip this up, it disappears fast! I love serving it with crunchy crackers or fresh bread. It’s like a hug for your taste buds! 🧀🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: A creamy, soft cheese that melts beautifully. If brie isn’t available, use camembert – it has a similar texture and flavor.
Apples: I love using Granny Smith for their tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness. Feel free to swap in any apple variety you like – just make sure they hold their shape while cooking!
Unsalted Butter: It enhances flavor without added salt. You can replace it with coconut oil or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and caramel notes. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup if you prefer a natural sweetener.
Puff Pastry: It’s a great way to make the dish look fancy! If you’re short on time, skip it or use a wrap made from phyllo dough. You can also make it puff pastry-free if desired!
How Do I Caramelize My Apples Perfectly?
Caramelizing apples gives them a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with brie. It’s simple but needs attention!
- Start with medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the apples.
- Stir in brown sugar and lemon juice. This helps the sugar dissolve.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples should be soft and slightly golden, but still hold their shape. Don’t rush this step!
Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. A touch of lemon juice adds brightness and balances the sweetness!
Apple Brie Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional, plus extra for garnish)
- 1 sheet puff pastry (optional, for wrapping)
- Sliced red apples (for serving)
- Baguette slices or crackers (for serving)
- Honey (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in just under an hour, you can have a delicious, warm dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your brie cooks evenly and melts beautifully.
2. Sauté the Apples:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced apples along with the brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and thyme leaves. Sauté everything together until the apples are tender and caramelized, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry (if using):
If you decided to use puff pastry, roll it out on a lightly floured surface so it’s slightly larger than the brie. Place your brie wheel in the center of the pastry.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Spoon the sautéed apples on top of the brie, letting them pile on generously. If you’re using the puff pastry, fold it up and over the brie and apples, making sure to pinch the edges to seal them well. If you’re not using pastry, simply place the brie in a small oven-safe dish and layer the apples on top.
5. Bake the Cheese:
For puff pastry, place the wrapped brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam side down. You can brush the top with a little beaten egg or milk if you want it to be golden brown. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the brie is melted and bubbly, and the pastry is golden.
6. Cool and Serve:
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Then, transfer your beautiful creation to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and, if desired, drizzle a bit of honey on top for a sweet touch.
7. Enjoy with Dipping Options:
Serve this delightful baked brie warm with sliced red apples, toasted baguette slices, or crunchy crackers on the side. Dive in and enjoy this satisfying blend of flavors!
This warm, melty brie paired with sweet caramelized apples and optional flaky pastry makes for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is traditional, you can use camembert, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sautéed apples ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a day. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the dish as instructed and bake from chilled, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook the cheese.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, or dried fruits like cranberries for extra sweetness. Just mix them in with the sautéed apples before baking!
